Curtiss’ Milkweed is a species endemic to Florida scrub habitat and is listed as endangered by the state of Florida. Little is currently known about the microhabitat requirements of the species, but its habitat is disappearing at an alarming rate. Hayley's research occurs in numerous locations in central Florida, including the Lyonia Preserve in Deltona.

Some aspects measured include light levels, soil moisture levels, soil composition, and distance to nearest neighbor at each site. Laboratory trials include randomly planted seeds in locations where light levels and soil litter cover were controlled. Data collection from this portion of the experiment is ongoing at Stetson University.

Since graduating, Hayley has been spending time in Washington D.C., writing with the National Geographic Society and the Smithsonian Institute.  Some of her writing can be found on the Web, linked below:

Umbrella bird:
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/11/081113-umbrella-bird-rainforest-missions.html

A new mushroom species:
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/10/081031-belize-mushroom-missions.html

Fruits of the Amazon:
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2008/10/081014-amazon-fruit-missions.html